The latest guidance on challenging and controversial aspects of colorectal cancer Colorectal cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the US and Europe. Thousands of people are diagnosed with the disease every year and nearly half of these die as a result. As colorectal cancer is curable when detected early, a significant proportion of these deaths could be prevented by earlier diagnosis. Much has changed since the publication of the first edition of this book in 2001: introduction of screening programs, improved diagnosis and surgery for rectal cancer, and advances in adjuvant and palliative medical therapy to name but a few. Challenges in Colorectal Cancer provides the most up-to-date information on the new and emerging treatments. The second edition looks at the total patient management of this condition and is aimed at the entire medical team caring for those with colorectal cancer. It also contains the latest guidelines on epidemiology and prevention of colorectal cancer, and the application of molecular genetics. The expanded international editor team present advice on surgical management, including new laparoscopic and endoscopic techniques and the role of the pathologist. They also review hot topics in colorectal cancer treatment, including the role of radiotherapy, options for chemotherapy and new developments in vaccines and immunotherapy.

Providing up-to-date management information for nurses educating the public on, and caring for patients with, colorectal cancer, these 15 contributions by US nursing specialists cover: epidemiology and risk; prevention and detection, including controversies over screening and the role of diet; patho

As the population ages, clinicians are facing an increasing number of elderly patients with colorectal cancer. These patients pose unique challenges as they have more comorbidities and lower functional reserves. In addition, the treatment goals may differ from those in younger patients. This book discusses in depth the different aspects of management of colorectal cancer in the elderly. After the provision of pertinent background information on the normal physiology of aging, screening and diagnosis are discussed. Subsequent chapters focus on a range of issues associated with the surgical and perioperative care of these patients and with adjuvant treatment and palliative care. Each chapter provides helpful take-home messages in bullet point form, and numerous informative figures and tables are also included. The authors are surgeons, physicians, anesthetists, geriatricians, oncologists, and allied health professionals with extensive experience in the field.

Rectal cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers world-wide. It is also a paradigm for multimodal management, as the combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy is often necessary to achieve the optimal outcome. Recently, international experts met in Heidelberg, Germany to discuss the latest developments in the management of rectal cancer, including the anatomic and pathologic basis, staging tools, surgical concepts including fast-track surgery and laparoscopic resection, functional outcome after surgery and the role of radio- and chemotherapy. This monograph summarizes this meeting and gives an extensive overview of the current concepts in management of rectal cancer.

This is an overview of the issues involved in prevention and early detection of colorectal cancer providing up-to-date, practical advice for clinicians. Possible management strategies for those at risk are provided, taking into account the biological principles of colorectal cancer development, epidemiological data and emerging genetic information, as well as social and environmental factors.

Cancer ranks second only to heart disease as a leading cause of death in the United States, making it a tremendous burden in years of life lost, patient suffering, and economic costs. Fulfilling the Potential for Cancer Prevention and Early Detection reviews the proof that we can dramatically reduce cancer rates. The National Cancer Policy Board, part of the Institute of Medicine, outlines a national strategy to realize the promise of cancer prevention and early detection, including specific and wide-ranging recommendations. Offering a wealth of information and directly addressing major controversies, the book includes: A detailed look at how significantly cancer could be reduced through lifestyle changes, evaluating approaches used to alter eating, smoking, and exercise habits. An analysis of the intuitive notion that screening for cancer leads to improved health outcomes, including a discussion of screening methods, potential risks, and current recommendations. An examination of cancer prevention and control opportunities in primary health care delivery settings, including a review of interventions aimed at improving provider performance. Reviews of professional education and training programs, research trends and opportunities, and federal programs that support cancer prevention and early detection. This in-depth volume will be of interest to policy analysts, cancer and public health specialists, health care administrators and providers, researchers, insurers, medical journalists, and patient advocates.